Former employee at Palmerstone House Children’s Home found guilty of sexual offences

Willy John Gillham has been found guilty of sexual offences against a boy under 16. He committed these offences in 1981 and 1982 whilst employed at the former Palmerstone House Children’s Home on Botley Road, Romsey, in Hampshire. 

This conviction follows an earlier 2017 sentence for similar non-recent sexual child abuse crimes where he was sentenced to fifteen years imprisonment. Whilst serving that sentence, another person came forward reporting that they had also been assaulted whilst under Gillham’s care at Palmerstone House. These further disclPalmerstone House Children’s Homeosures prompted a new police investigation by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, resulting in further prosecution.

Weeks after his release, Gillham received a postal requisition to appear in court for the newly reported offences. This resulted in Gillham being sentenced to thirteen years imprisonment at Winchester Crown Court. 

Unfortunately, this case is not an isolated incident. In recent decades, there has been a significant increase in reports of historic abuse within Children’s Homes across England. Survivors have described serious failures in safeguarding, oversight, and accountability. 

Survivors of childhood abuse maybe be entitled to bring claims not only against the individual responsible, but also against the organisations that failed in their duty of care. This can include former employers, local authorities, or other bodies responsible for the operation and oversight of care settings.

The passage of time does not necessarily prevent a claim from being brought. The courts recognise the complex and long-lasting impact of childhood abuse, as well as difficulties of disclosing  the abuse which has been suffered.

Detective Constable Craig Rainsley said: “Gillham’s victim was in a setting where he should have been safe and cared for, but Gillham abused his authority and betrayed him in the worst way possible.

“The victim in this case has shown great courage in speaking with police, and I would like to commend their bravery throughout this investigation and subsequent trial.

“I am pleased that he has been brought to justice, and I hope this encourages other members of our community who have experienced such abuse to come forward.

“It doesn’t matter how long ago it was, you will be listened to and we will investigate.”